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He was charged with three counts of DUI, but police noted that he was 'respectful and professional throughout the entire process,' according to TMZ.

In a statement released yesterday by the Rockies, Helton said: 'Last evening I exercised poor judgment and was charged with drinking and driving after driving to a gas station near my house.

'I am very sorry and embarrassed by my actions. I hold myself to a high standard and take my responsibility as a public figure very seriously. My entire career I have worked to set a positive example for my family and in our community and I fell far short of this standard.'

Veteran: Helton, 39, missed most of the 2012 baseball season but is expected to return this year for his 17th Major League season

He added: 'I sincerely ask my family, the Colorado Rockies Organization, Major League Baseball and the community to accept my apology. I make no excuses and accept full responsibility for my actions. I humbly ask your forgiveness.'

Nicknamed 'the Toddfather,' Helton is a career .320 hitter. The 39-year-old played only 69 games last year before undergoing hip surgery in August.

He is expected to return this year for his 17th Major League season.

Helton signed a two-year, $9.9million contract extension to stay with the team in 2010.